saintlouismama | ExpatWoman.com
 

saintlouismama

314
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 January 2012 - 21:26
DH switched our health insurance to Metlife Alico at the beginning of this year. Having many problems with them wanting to cover anything. Is anybody else having the same thing? Have heard that Alico used to be good about coverage until they joined up with Metlife. Took my kids to dermatologist for acne problems and they said the meds were excluded. (Ok I guess I can live with that) But after talking to our agent he says Acne would probably be considered a pre-existing condition, even though it is the first time I have consulted a dr. about it. Would like some feedback from anybody else dealing with them. Thanks. Acne is a preexhisting condition? youre joking. sounds like the stupid US rules.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 January 2012 - 21:24
Yes but isnt it on the next day anyway cause of the time difference? I think we are going to watch it but on Monday....so means stay away from TV before that so you dont spoil the winner
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 January 2012 - 21:21
Is not part of the naughty list but I will give props to Peppercrab....awesome meal....and Ruth Chris Steakhouse- good steaks if that what your husband or you likes!!! not bad sweet potatoe cassarole either for you Americans out there.... A good meal is always good! Feb 14 or not....:)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 January 2012 - 21:10
I live in Barsha and pick up after the dogs. The guys building the roads who pee on the wall of our compound and squat to p@@ in the ditch don't pick up after themselves, or even seem perturbed to be noticed by western woman when all equipment is out and airing.... Sometimes I wonder WHY I pick up after the dog... NO WAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :(
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 January 2012 - 17:22
There was a dumped Persian thread on here not too long ago, such a sad story, why not give that one a home if you are looking for a Persian? <em>edited by saintlouismama on 21/01/2012</em>
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 January 2012 - 12:03
yes, thoughts? flaws in the us education system....im from usa, so have a lot of thoughts on it
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 23:05
Well, I think that's fairly shocking, as a salary for those hours, in Dubai (and I also think there are probably differences in working conditions between different nurseries) However, I can't understand why you think a TA is a 'professional' position - what education does it require (not what education do those individuals have, but what education is actually needed for the post)? Many housemaids have sole care of their employers' children for at least part of the day - that is far more of a responsibility than helping to hand out paintbrushes. Well I would think that most people would rate a TA's position higher than a maids in the employment ladder....? Cmon one is scrubbing bathrooms and one is in a school. Also, like another poster said, even some entry level jobs like a mcdonalds manager require more experience and less pay then most maids salaries (check the thread) Not to mention, what we pay for schools, I do think the TAs should be somewhat qualified. The thread started about salaries and what is considered right or wrong....
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 12:02
The people who are shocked about how little maids earn here have no idea about economics. Huge salaries ruin the economies of places like the philippines, cause brain drain and aren't as helpful as people think. Some people in Dubai are paying their househelp the equivalent of CEO or Doctor's salaries in the Philippines. Why would someone stay in Manila and be a teacher or a nurse when they can come to Dubai, look after someone's kids and earn more? Yes, this is my point mainy because my maid is very unskilled. She is very nice and I do understand she is here to just do what she can to help her family. I guess I am just reflecting back to the people who initially told me...2000+ a month, wouldnt work a fri, expected this and that, and a ticket every year. Ok, that is fine if you pay it. In my mind then, i just figured the skilled workers must make this....or that..... no I dont blame anybody for self preservation and survival. Just here to discuss and share. Now that I do have a bot more information, why would you even stay in the Phillippines etc? yes its total brain drain-- welcome to the Global Marketplace.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 11:55
Most people who I have encountered with positive views were arab background. Its quite a prestigious school in many arab countries. Yes, this is true. My husband was trying to push this school, but i knew it would not suit our kids. In Jordan, its quite popular. However, I just cannot get over the lack of communication with parents and admin and teachers.....not used to that being from US.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 11:52
The longer you can wait for solids, the better. 6 months is good if you can hold out. I believe it prevents some allergies. Yes, that is exactly why I think my Dr hammered in into my head, to wait until 6 months....with my 3 child, born 2 years ago, they really stressed this. I think with the high rate of new food allergy issues etc....they are now really enforcing this idea. but advice is ever changing, especailly here, where you have many different opinions.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 11:48
Hello my name is Highland Lass. I am a kit kat chunky lover and have a laundry basket that is NEVER empty of wet towels which I am slowly coming to except. My hobbies are procrastination and not picking up after my family. Please to meet you all :) this is the best post ive seen in awhile :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 11:17
very good post blimey, but really i did not know i was paying my maid more than a TA in a school... not here to argue whats fair, just thought it was interesting....
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 11:11
saintlouismama, thank you for the recommendations :) ...actually its good for him to eat solids and he loves them all ,....but he should also have around 500 ml milk...or at least thats what dr. Sanja from Infinity Clinic (our pediatrician) adviced... I guess certain doctors are just different. In the US, peds do not recommend solids until 6 months, thus solids are not given until 6 months....? I have never been given different advice, have 3 kids....? Assuming you started this out because he refused milk from early on? I guess peds are just different here depending where they are from.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 10:35
a baby this young should not have solids....? I would go to the American Hospital or have even had alot of recommeds on here for Dr Cooper Khan on Wasl
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 10:31
Totally - considering we work all week as well and sometimes we like to be able to have the CHOICE as an employer when we are allowed to go out! Yes, all I am saying is choice.... I dont go out during the week at all, so please take the night off whenever or day off to go out, but why-- why should I scramble for a wedding on a fri to find a babysitter ? everybody knows here, when youre invited out, its usually fris? I am not saying dont give people a day off.....i said to someone once over the phone, ' ok, you get fri and sat off- are you the boss or am I ? "
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 10:25
I wasnt trying to justify anything, I can see why people might pay 700 a month- to the person who pays 2500 a month.... I am just putting out some interesting information. The TAs at the nursery are picked up by bus a little after 5 am....and return about 5 pm.....they are paid 1100 a month... How did I get this information? a friend of mine works as a teacher. I just thought it was worth knowing. Mainly because in my mind a professional , even a lower level one, should be making more than a maid does. Not applying western wages here, or labor laws, or phillipino/ sri lankan ones....just my own assumptions. Just surprised about the monthly incomes. If you chosse to do this or that fine, I just thought it was worth knowing what the salary scale is here.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 January 2012 - 16:29
ok someone was looking for hair mascara, park and shop had it for grey coverage..... also someone was looking for a nice picnic basket- harvest home in jumeriah center on beach road. Center next to Magrudys (spelling ??) books etc... :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 January 2012 - 16:24
Ladies, out of just being curious, I asked what TAs are paid in the schools. I was told 1100 per month!!! yes Im talking in a nursery/KG level. I just think its very interesting ...especially people that are so adament about a salary being right or wrong for a maid. I was saying earlier that we all just have to think about what stardards are being applied here--employment wise...
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 January 2012 - 11:53
I guess I must be odd man out, this place is like 3-4 times the amount in cost of living than where i am from in the USA. Food, our cars were about 10000-15000 more here than in usa...housing and schools are four times the average....and the income is not four times bigger....? that is the point about savings....how do you all do it?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 January 2012 - 01:04
honestly, was never ever told about a 400 dollar figure. signed a contract for Dhs not a dollar amount. agreed to medical, food, clothes and extras, on top of the cash. but SERIOUSLY never saw a 400 dollar amount on anything. Just came oct 31...... went through a agency, so all legal also.......
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 January 2012 - 00:51
To interject and verify that the Philippine government want all their overseas domestic workers to be paid a minimum wage of 400USD globally, regardless of which country they are working in. This is to protect them against exploitation and low wages. Minimum wages have been set by the embassies of the workers, not the DNRD or UAE government. You are definitely not breaking any UAE law by paying less than the embassy recommended minimum salary. ...i dont think the number is enforced. its a recommendation.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 January 2012 - 00:48
No, Im not being taken advantage of, thats my point. I will not pay 1400 plus full board and medical with 2 months vaca a year. No way. I am saying yes, there are maids that might be worth it...but how can a maids salary and a professional hotel workers salary be equal? how can people expect 2 months off a year? [u'>[b'>the latest ive heard is that if they dont go home, you must pay the plane ticket value to them in cash?[/b'>[/u'> No, that is not what I agreed to. My point is that these demands by the domestic help, are getting out of hand. If they were hotel workers, they would not get the same salary? they would not get 2 months off a year or a chance to work under the table. I know some might be worth it, but all i am saying is do a salary comparion .....Check around, see what the salarys are for maids in hotels, what the benefits are, and maybe adjust. Someone said a IT person- low level- was making just a few thousand a month. Is IT and maid equal in your eyes? This is in the contract you sign at Immigration. Yes, but every year youre required to give them a month off? or pay them the cash value of a ticket. I agreed to every 2 years not every year?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 January 2012 - 00:45
I think it says a lot that maids get half the "minimum" maid wage when employed as 'cleaners' on a regular employee visa by companies like Howdra and Explorer. Change the type of visa - and the wage is doubled. Yet its the same work. I'm not saying I agree with one or the other. But it just begs the question - why? There aren't minimums for other employee categories - including categories that entail education and qualifications. 1400aed plus food and accommodation is alot not only in their home countries - but a lot compared to their compatriots here in dubai. How is it that they can enforce minimum wages for one category and not the other? This is dont know the answer to- but would be curious to find out. I guess SK, I am putting things into perspective the last month. Mainly cause this subject has come up....Also mine expects to work a few morning hours only because of Ramadan. So thats another month. I guess Im really getting peeved at this knowing that in the USA we have a law for 2 weeks vaca, not paid necessarily, and here I have domestic help expecting to go home paid for 2 months, really, my husband doesnt get 2 months off a year at a high level job? Perspective. Im putting it all in perspective. I do repect everyones opinions very much, just feel its getting out of hand.... Why 2 months vacation paid a year? They get one month paid vacation after contract completion. Yes, I agree...i have seen were the family goes back to home country, and the maid cannot be brought. Mine will not come with me for the summer. She will stay here, but do nothing while we are gone. Of course I also think a return ticket home is reasonable, but why are some people stating that it must be paid after 1 year? Also, she goes for a month then? My maid also needs to work half time for ramadan, I guess Im just saying that all in all, seems like alot of time off.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 20:59
Yes Cat Ksa, youre right, and if i have one for years- her wage would go up..... I like you mentioned proactive, good trait....seems as if you have a professional...and one who is up to her job. I do like my maid just fine, but am still adjusting to it all after 2 months. I do feel as if I have to tell her, ok, wash the floors...blah blah...she let it all go one week, cause i didnt tell her to do it.....i like proactive! i want proactive! hand to tell her not to wash kids hands in bidet....yes....
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 20:35
thanks for sharing about your Dr I have 3 kids but do not want to find a OB, acciendently get preggo or anything, only to have them tell me they only do a C.......no thanks just cant believe thats ok for a Dr to do......
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 20:28
You have the best chances of having a natural birth if you go to the government hospital. Once you are pregnant, it is worth checking out. Why? private hospitals dont do a v/natural delivery?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 19:52
Was that ok with her, because I would have a lot of problems if my Dr made such a statement I'd most likely just dump him/ her right? :\: yes :) id dump him.....
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 19:45
i dont see how I can save yet....with 3 kids to educate here? its the bulk of the expense not to mention grocery bills and DEWA
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 19:32
Well I have 3 kids....but I had this discussion with someone. I asked her about her Dr and she said, oh no - hes not going to get up in the night, he only does scheduled Cs..... I was very surprised that a Dr can do this. It is not allowed in USA. ? so looking to avoid a Dr like that to say the least.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 19:28
good read and funny in a way, someone was just saying you make a ton in SA...and save save save
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 19:01
Really SLM, not much to do here but procreate!!! lol My doctors were both great and pro-natural birth. I had a c-section with the twins, but only after much standing on head and other methods to get DS to shift! Literally made me LOL.....:) thanks
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 18:54
Hi Ladies, can I ask you a ? I have heard from alot of people that Dr. here only do C sections? almost force it on you. Anway just curious what you think about this? and is this true? Looking for a OBGYN and will not go if I am told that is the only method of delivery....?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 18:54
No not pregnant BTW...but just looking for a Dr.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 15:36
I think it says a lot that maids get half the "minimum" maid wage when employed as 'cleaners' on a regular employee visa by companies like Howdra and Explorer. Change the type of visa - and the wage is doubled. Yet its the same work. I'm not saying I agree with one or the other. But it just begs the question - why? There aren't minimums for other employee categories - including categories that entail education and qualifications. 1400aed plus food and accommodation is alot not only in their home countries - but a lot compared to their compatriots here in dubai. How is it that they can enforce minimum wages for one category and not the other? This is dont know the answer to- but would be curious to find out. I guess SK, I am putting things into perspective the last month. Mainly cause this subject has come up....Also mine expects to work a few morning hours only because of Ramadan. So thats another month. I guess Im really getting peeved at this knowing that in the USA we have a law for 2 weeks vaca, not paid necessarily, and here I have domestic help expecting to go home paid for 2 months, really, my husband doesnt get 2 months off a year at a high level job? Perspective. Im putting it all in perspective. I do repect everyones opinions very much, just feel its getting out of hand....
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 15:21
No, Im not being taken advantage of, thats my point. I will not pay 1400 plus full board and medical with 2 months vaca a year. No way. I am saying yes, there are maids that might be worth it...but how can a maids salary and a professional hotel workers salary be equal? how can people expect 2 months off a year? the latest ive heard is that if they dont go home, you must pay the plane ticket value to them in cash? No, that is not what I agreed to. My point is that these demands by the domestic help, are getting out of hand. If they were hotel workers, they would not get the same salary? they would not get 2 months off a year or a chance to work under the table. I know some might be worth it, but all i am saying is do a salary comparion .....Check around, see what the salarys are for maids in hotels, what the benefits are, and maybe adjust. Someone said a IT person- low level- was making just a few thousand a month. Is IT and maid equal in your eyes?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 13:26
I will tell you to really think it through, about days off. I have told our maid FROM THE START, that she can have Wed or Sunday off....NO NO MADAME.....I WANT FRI OFF So now I am stuck always looking for a sitter when I have a errand, a sports game, etc...that I dont want to lug all 3 to, or when I need a dinner date with my husband.....nope. I offered a day off, take it or leave it. Be carfeul, cause they will not bend usually-- and why should you- the employer hire babysitters on fri or sats??? Just some advice.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 13:18
I have to agree with Dina.. Some of you dont realise that by giving the exorbitant wage that you do, it not only makes it difficult for families who cant afford to give such , but also spoils them rotten. Dh800 is a fotune for them back home, please dont compare the salary with what you would give them in your own home country ..its not the same, Some of the maids (the ones who get paid 1000+) are making more money than the educated lot in their countries, (eg the teachers, accountants, etc,..and maybe even doctors). By being paid this amount, what do you they infer from this.. that it is better to be a housemaid in a European/English/White (or whatever other term they have) than be educated. what message do you think they relay back home? Dont study... just catch hold of such ppl who feel guilty to pay Dh800 or less.. take advantage of these ppl, play on their emotions---and thats exactly what they do ! seriously think about it! You are RIGHT. It really is Econ 101. I feel like my expats moms are being taken advantage of. I caught our maid lying from the start. I dont cook, I dont make coffee or tea. She also can take a afternoon nap in the previous madames home? WHAT? Anyway, just be smart about it. Think about it. Why do maids make a minium wage in the West? there is not much too it. Yes, they babysit. But how hard is it to watch kids when they sleep? Sorry, not worth 2000 per month plus food? Mine eats at least 5-600 per month?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 January 2012 - 16:53
Yes, I got a good deal on a sofa at united furniture and a coffee table at marina...but clothes? not sure....thats why i asked? THANKS for the sephora feedback! thats a deal.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 January 2012 - 11:45
Yes - be very proud of yourself. Everyone starts somewhere and soon you will be able to do more My heart rate was 170....is this normal? No, its a little high....maybe be a bit easier....
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 January 2012 - 09:56
I guess why Im asking is, in case anybody has gone, I have seen some ads for 25-75 % off, will I go and there be like 25% off....and the 75% off is for socks? i mean are there GOOD deals.?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 January 2012 - 09:45
Honestly ladies, are there good deals out there, or it is stuff we dont really need, or prices not so great anyway.... I can shop in USA, so tell me your real advice on this, never been here for DSF before.... will say furniture is on sale, so thats nice.....TIA :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 January 2012 - 09:42
Why some of these posts DO make me LOL I do want to add I am from St Louis,see the user name, and it is where the real exorcist case happened. Yes, the childs head didnt spin, as in the movie, but it did happen. This is not made to scare anybody, but it can happen. Call a Catholic priest if you are that scared. They may be reluctant, but they are familiar with these things. Really, no joking.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 December 2011 - 09:08
It is not pointless. In this culture, there is alot of saving face. Alot is usually NOT said, mainly because people feel that certain things, are not peoples buisness, especially child rearing. Alot of people do not say anything- because it is more polite. However, you must tell the school to make a big deal about this. If you want to get it off your chest. I cannot FATHOM why anyone would hold a infant in the front seat !!!! another thing i see here alot........
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 December 2011 - 08:51
and of her DVDs around also?? we love her!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 December 2011 - 08:45
Yes, but there are alot of creepy people here. I caught someone taking a video of my kids on the beach. The american in me wanted to take the phone and throw it in..... Sorry- culture or not, creepy when 3 young men are taking pic/video of kids in swimsuits. What on earth would you want to watch a video of someone elses kids? this is comming from my arabic husband who was ****** i didnt phone the cops on the spot.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 December 2011 - 08:09
I told my 7 year old exactly what's been happening and what to do if it happened to him. No use hiding the truth. Same. I furthermore emphasize that the majority of child abuse is committed by family/friends/acquaintances. No use telling them only about stranger danger when the worst might lurk among the unexpected. I tell my kids nobody should ever touch them-- ...not anybody! they are the owners of thier body. I also tell them that no matter what they can tell us anything, even if they think they cant, and that nobody will hurt us. Often, predetors tell children the parents will die if they tell.....?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 December 2011 - 13:28
Al Aliyha labor.....full time maids....
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 December 2011 - 22:43
i figured thats the reason, but this is a full on disco, with flashing strobe lights, pulsing music too.......in a total residential area.......i can hear all the musics words.....wow
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 December 2011 - 22:22
Thank you both for the swift reply. I appreciate that Jordan has alot to offer and a weekend is maybe not enough time but due to work restrictions we cannot visit for longer. On our list of places to visit are 1. The Dead Sea 2. Bethany Beyond Jordan Can you advise roughly how far from the Amman this is and if it is advisable to book a tour or arrange our own transportation? Thanks I would not miss Petra, in fact, its the only must do. AWESOME to see...and some nights it is open...Also, the Marriott Dead Sea is wonderful. Id fly into Amman, go to the Dead Sea...get a mud treatment....the next day go to Petra. Maybe Wadi Rum too....I have been to Jordan quite a few times....Jerash is great but kinda further out....
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Latest post on 02 December 2011 - 22:13
Ok, what is happening in Jum 3? a full on disco in the compound ? anybody know?